Frequently
Asked Questions

You may
have a frequently asked question that is answered on
this page. If you don't find an answer or are
interested in adding a question please email the Chief
Petty Officer Academy using the link at the bottom of
this page.

How much college credit will I get from the Academy?

Graduates of the CPO Academy receive a total of 12 semester hours of college credit from the American Council on Education (ACE): 3 lower-division hours in Communications, 3 upper-division semester hours in Leadership, 3 upper-division semester hours in Human Resource Management, and 3 upper-division semester hours in Organizational Development. To receive credit, update and resubmit CGI Form 1561 with documentation of course completion, month and year of graduation.

What are the cancellation procedures?

Requests for cancellations are not taken lightly. Once orders are issued, cancellations require the approval of the first flag officer in the member's chain of command, and the message must be released by an O-5 level or above. You should review your People Plan for guidance and message templates. Remember that the CPO Academy does not control course quotas, and you need to contact the Training Quota Management Center.

What civilian clothes should I bring?

You will have several activities out of uniform. Coast Guard or service physical fitness uniforms are required for class PT sessions.

You will have a community service day, so bring civilian clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.

During activities on the Ropes course, you should wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty or mind getting small amounts of tree sap on.

Civilian clothes are required for several classes. An organized liberty event and class highlight is the San Quentin State Prison tour, business casual (Khaki pants and collared shirt) is required to participate in the tour. Closed toe shoes are required for these classes. No sandals or flip flops!

How much free time will I have?

Being a student is your primary mission while at the CPO Academy. While you will have many assignments and class commitments, you will also have ample time to see the sights of Northern California. Check out the Training Center Petaluma website for ideas

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